Family coach firm names coach after champion disability gymnast (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

World Special Olympics champion has coach named in his honour

12:20pm Tuesday 5th March 2013 in News By Barbara Jordan

WORLD Special Olympics champion, Omar Haddad, from Widnes, has received an unexpected honour.

Family coach firm Anthony’s Travel, from Runcorn, has invested £225,000 in a fully accessible coach and named it after him.

Richard Bamber, aged 41, who runs the firm in Cormorant Drive with his parents, Anne and Tony, said: “Omar has shown that his disabiliities need not be a barrier.

“He has competed at the highest level and is a truly inspirational young man of whom we are all very proud.”

The company used to take Omar to school 20 years ago and has continued to sponsor him.

Gifted Downs Syndrome gymnast Omar, aged 25, won five gold and two bronze medals in 2011, and carried the Olympic Torch last year.

His mum, Liz, aged 51, of Downside, Hough Green, said: “Omar was absolutely made up to see his name on the coach.

“It’s a lovely gesture.”

The 49-seater coach is fitted with an access lift to allow passengers with mobility problems or wheelchairs to board more easily.

Bob Bryant, founder of Halton’s Let’s Go Stroke Club, said: “This new coach is absolutely superb. We run monthly days out and holidays and had to use a firm from outside the borough.

“Now, we’re delighted to have a fully accessible disabled coach here in Halton.”